Karen Brooks, The Escapades of Tribulation Johnson, Harlequin Australia, HQ, July 2023.

Thank you, NetGalley, for providing me with this uncorrected proof for review.

Unlike The Good Wife of Bath where Karen Brooks’ Eleanor instantly endeared herself to me, it took me longer to warm to Tribulation. However, it was well worth taking that journey with this flawed, determined, uninhibited and courageous woman. Tribulation leaves an unloving household to live with her cousin, Aphra Behn, in London. Unknown to her exacting father, Tribulation is about to enter the home of an infamous playwright, her second home in the theatre, and another in the world of spies, intrigue and duplicity. Tribulation finds each a source of excitement, burgeoning career opportunities, love and hate, far removed from her early years as a dismissed daughter of the vicar of Chartham in Kent, and older sister, Bethan.

Tribulation takes matters into her own hands during the journey to London, donning her deceased brother’s clothing and dispensing with her chaperone. She arrives at Aphra Behn’s home thus clad, alone, and all too obviously ill from eating stale oysters. Despite this poor introduction, she is to begin a life that brings her the motherly love she has never experienced, and a theatrical and writing career. She continues to be independent, at the same time as craving maternal love and companionship. She and Aphra live, work and enjoy life as well as despairing, together. Most importantly, they recognise the discrimination they suffer as women, and seek to change this through their behaviour, but most importantly, their work in the theatre as playwrights.

Tribulation is just one of the thoughtfully created fictional characters in this novel which also introduces real historical figures who made up the theatrical, royal and conspiratorial world in the last years of the reign of Charles 11. For those not familiar with the period the explanatory material at the end of the book, denoting fictional characters and real historical figures in the novel is a marvellous assistance. Not only that, but it also provides information that cannot be conveyed through the fictionalised events of Tribulation’s life in London. The list of plays that are referred to throughout the novel is also an excellent addition. Both of these sources and Karen Brooks’ explanation of her motivation for writing The Escapades of Tribulation Johnson, information about her research and detailed information about some of the more important historical figures enhance reading of this engaging and inspiring novel.

Brooks has been ingenious in her portrayal of Tribulation as a character with whom the reader cannot fully sympathise. She provides the fictional counterpart of Aphra Behn with whom also it is difficult to ignore some grating characteristics. Both characters are fighting for equal rights for women, they are strong and admirable. But at the same time, each has her flaws that create difficulties in their own lives, the lives of their companions and in the reader’s mind. With her portrayal of Tribulation, Brooks makes it easy to understand Aphra Behn as a complex character. As I noted at the beginning of this review, I could not warm to Tribulation immediately. This, I now see as an advantage rather than a problem. Brooks has shown how difficult women have valid concerns and their manner of expressing these, however uncomfortable for others, is also valid. Indeed, such execution of crucial ideas is often essential and to be admired. She draws the reader into the complexities of being a woman demanding rights for women, enhancing a reader’s understanding not only of the real figure, Aphra Behn and of the fictional figure, Tribulation, but of feminist aims and ideas and the difficulties of voicing and achieving them.

The Escapades of Tribulation Johnson is an engaging, illuminating read. One that I enjoyed on a first reading and shall enjoy rereading.

Thank you Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this.

I enjoyed this more than I thought I would, even though it took me a while to read through this.

I found this to be an engaging read, with a mix of fictional characters and actual historical figures, this was very nicely blended with one another.

A definite read for those who enjoy a mix of romance, mystery and action all set in the 17th Century.

This is a big book and a big story set in the 1600’s in England and set around the restoration theatres, add to that the political plots from from different factions to remove the King and this story has a lot happening. We meet Tribulation Johnson a young woman who was born in the wrong era, come along and meet her and Aphra Behn the playwright for an adventure.

Tribulation has always been outspoken and when she speaks up once too often her very strict father sends her to London, here she moves in with her cousin Aphra Behn a strong feminist and writer, Aphra has been a spy and is not always treated very well especially by the men in the world, but her and Tribulation become very close, Tribulation takes on work as a thespian in the theatre and is soon also writing for news sheets and plays. Aphra encourages Tribulation to be who she is and she grows stronger by the day.

But with plots growing and a secret uncovered soon both Tribulation and Aphra are stepping in to help save the King this of course is very dangerous but both woman are strong and determined and they have the help and support of Gabriel, will they get through everything that is thrown their way?

I really enjoyed the relationship between firstly Tribulation and Aphra the support they gave each other and then the relationship with Tribulation and Gabriel, this is a story that will appeal to readers who love history and strong woman, Karen Brooks has made this era so real and one thing I learnt was this is an era I would not like to have been born into, woman had to fight for everything.

I did very much enjoy this story and recommend to any reader who loves history.

My thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for my copy to read and review.

For a chunky book I raced through it because Karen Brooks is an amazing storyteller with wonderful, relatable characters. Once again she has delivered a fascinating, enthralling take on the story of a well-known historical figure. This time it is Aphra Behn, who is one of the founding mothers of feminism and women's rights by being the first female to be a paid writer.

She is not, however, the main character. That is her fictional niece, Tribulation Johnson, who is sent to live with Aphra to escape marriage. Just like The Good Wife of Bath, there is a beautiful relationship between Aphra and Tribulation and many humourous and exciting hijinks. We are fully emersed in the world of 1600s theatre and the witch hunt against Catholics at the time. While many of the men in this book are deplorable, there are also many jewels, more balanced than The Good Wife. There was also no icky underage sex and Tribulation reads much more like the age that she is and matures as she ages through the book. Whereas Eleanor in The Good Wife started out too mature for her age and didn't really develop through the book.

This book made me cry at the end and for that I am rating it higher than her previous book. Thank you to NetGalley for gifting me an digital ARC of this book.

Thanks to Harlequin Australia, Netgalley and the author for an ARC of this book. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

I absolutely love everything this author writes and so when I got the opportunity to read this book, I leapt at it. Being a bit of a feminist history buff I was aware of Aphra Behn and that she was a prolific writer during Stuart times. This wonderful tale begins with a cousin of Aphra's, Tribulation Johnson, being sent to London to stay with her. Their ensuing friendship, Tribulation's involvement with the theatre, the troubled political times they lived in and the power of men all form the fabric of this layered and epic story.

The characterisation is faultless and I especially enjoyed Mr Freeman and Solomon's interactions, closely followed by the loving relationship between Aphra, Tribulation and Nest.

The way that a misfit like Tribulation finds her inspiration and a place she can fit in is beautifully told. While heart-wrenching at times this is a story well worth reading. A magical imagining that I wish was true.

“I’d always felt there had to be more to life than simply listening. For that’s what women did. From the moment we entered the world, we were compelled to keep our lips sealed and ears primed so our fathers, brothers, other men, God, could pour their wisdom into them. So they could tell us what to read, eat, when to retire to bed, attend church, when to speak and, most of all, when and whom to marry. All the while, we had to smile and nod, regardless of our opinion on the matter.”

The Escapades Of Tribulation Johnson is the fifteenth novel by best-selling Australian author, Karen Brooks. In the early spring of 1679, seventeen-year-old Tribulation Johnson is sent away from her family in Chartham to avoid marriage to a wealthy but boring old baronet.

Tribulation’s interest in writing mocked, barely tolerated by her father, Rev. Howell Johnson, and her wish to become an actress was met with disgust, but apparently noted by her older sister, Bethan, by whose machinations she ends up in London with her widowed older cousin, the rather infamous playwright and poet, Aphra Behn, whose “poetry is excellent, her political writing can be scathing and her ability to lampoon is exceptional.”

After an undignified introduction, “I marvelled that here I was, Tribulation Johnson, the daughter of a country vicar, tucked into a threadbare chair in a London parlour, my belly settled and sated, a glass of perfectly drinkable wine in my hand, opposite one of the most notorious women in the country. Drum roll. Sound the trumpets. The Aphra Behn. My bloody cousin.”

She finds herself with a tiny part in Oedipus, being put on by the Dukes Company at Dorset Garden but though she overcomes the stage fright of her first night, her theatre career goes in a different direction. She makes some friends amongst the cast and crew, but others believe her role was gained through nepotism: her relationship to Aphra. And even though she works tirelessly as the company’s bookkeeper/prompter, there’s a lot of resentment.

The other new member of the cast replaces lead actor Matthew Medbourne, arrested for his suspected part in the Popish Plot. As Jonathan Rickman, he is there to act, but intelligencer Gabriel Freeman is also in the employ of King Charles II’s recently removed spymaster, Joseph Williamson, to identify possibly papist contacts of possibly papist Medbourne.

Tribulation notices that he always listens but seldom says much. And he seems very interested in anything Aphra says or does. Their initial encounters are less than friendly, which doesn’t really bother Tribulation. Sure, she finds him attractive, but a man is the last thing she needs.

Gabriel Freeman has been trying to avoid London, and any reminder of the wife and baby daughter who died while he was conducting battles at sea. But now, the royal succession issue makes his presence essential. Grief and guilt still plague him, but in his role as Jonathan Rickman, he encounters the very distracting Tribulation Johnson, whose name seems apt.

Back when she was a country vicar’s daughter, Tribulation spent a lot of time reading to, and learning from the elderly Lady Adeline, a woman of very diverse interests. It broadened her knowledge and fed her appetite for writing. Some months after she has joined the cast at the Dukes, the unfairness of a certain incident makes her so angry, she impulsively writes and publishes an essay which brings her to the notice of the King, with a surprisingly positive result.

Thereafter, she is encouraged by Aphra to write, this wholehearted support a marked contrast from Howell Johnson’s attitude. Aphra explains that most of all, she wants to reach people: “As a woman, I cannot argue in Parliament or even in a coffee-house. I cannot vote in a guild nor run for office. I cannot take arms but I can write. My plays — the words I put in the characters’ mouths, the plots, and themes, whether they are couched in comedy or drama, are like secret instructions to the people: instructions in things it’s impossible to insinuate into them in any other way.”

As the story progresses, Tribulation finds herself cast in various roles, sometimes simultaneously: actress, assistant prompter, co-writer of plays, playwright and covert surveillance. Success with playwriting affects her: “My heart sang as words I’d penned echoed around me, repeated by familiar and strange mouths. It was a heady, addictive sensation and I relished it. Did all writers feel this way? Did Aphra? No wonder she didn’t allow the spiteful observations of her foes to stop her. No wonder the men wanted to keep this thrill for themselves. The power it bestowed was dizzying.”

Tribulation and Aphra weather various upheavals, domestic, career and political: theatre shutdowns, moving house, mergers, and questions about her paternity that might explain Howell Johnson’s treatment of her, and they somehow get entangled in a royal assassination plot.

Brooks gives the reader a fabulous collision of reality and imagination, interweaving fact with fiction, all of it rich in historical detail. The dual narrative is from the perspectives of Tribulation and Gabriel, who are supported by a marvellously diverse cast of real people and fictional characters, and while it follows actual historical events, there are plenty of twists and turns that keep the reader fully engaged. Thoroughly compelling historical fiction.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and HQ Fiction.

Brilliantly crafted and very thoroughly researched, The Escapades Of Tribulation Johnson is a Book to savour. I loved the way author Karen Brooks wove fictions n around history, bringing to life a woman way ahead of her times in author, playwright and poet Aphra Behns. While Tribulation Johnson is the heroine of this story and a truly fascinating character in her own right, one of her key roles is to showcase Aphra’s achievements.
Karen Brooks has a great talent for using dialogue and self-talk to quickly sketch a character. Her description of Tribulation’s travelling companion Abstinence Gumble (love that name) is a case in point, “With her chicken-coop hair, bleary eyes and shaking hands, she wouldn’t have been able to accompany a hymn let alone a person.” Descriptions throughout the book make it very easy to imagine the life and times of London in the latter years of the reign of King Charles II and I often felt immersed in the scenes taking place. To say I enjoyed this book is an understatement. It is a very worthy follower to The Good Wife Of Bath, which was my introduction to the bookish world of Karen Brooks.

An epic novel set in London in the late 1600's this book tells the story of a young woman, Tribulation Johnson, who really lives up to her name and causes quite a lot of trouble mostly for herself. At a time when young ladies lived quietly and did as they were told, including marrying whoever their father dictated, Tribulation did exactly the opposite.

Fortune led her to find a home with Aphra Behn, a writer and a woman with the same feelings as Tribulation about women's freedom to think for themselves. Together they wrote political plays, in Tribulation's case anonymously, and caused quite a lot of controversy and some unfortunate repercussions.

Everything about the book was excellent - the London scenes, the atmosphere of the theatre, the politics of the day. Unfortunately for me I did not find Tribulation a really likeable character which meant I was never emotionally involved, which in turn made the book seem very long. I remember enjoying this author's The Good Wife of Bath very much indeed but in that case I know I also found the main character entertaining. Nonetheless The Escapades of Tribulation Johnson is a good book and well worth reading.

Karen Brooks can always be relied upon for an absolute cracker of a read. Her latest release, The Escapades of Tribulation Johnson, is epic: in scope, size, entertainment value, fabulous characters, sensational scenes, and history, history, history! The history – it always makes me swoon how much research Karen does and how effortlessly she seems to weave this into her fantastic tales.

This one is for the writers and the theatre lovers, along with those interested in the history of women in the arts. Karen’s love of the theatre shines through with the very many in depth theatre scenes, but it was the writing side of things that set my heart a flutter. Intrigue, spies, corruption, and turmoil abound. There is just so much going on in this story – it’s a marvel how Karen brings so many pieces of history together with such finesse.

Set some time aside though to really sink into this one. It’s a big book, and by big, I mean huge and involved; it’s not well suited to dipping in and out of. It’s more of an immersive read.

Bravo Karen Brooks! Another feather in your very talented writing cap.

Thanks to the publisher for the review copy.

I loved Karen Brook's Goodwife of Bath and had to request her newest work.

Unfortunately I knew almost nothing about this particular chapter in English history nor most of the plays or historical characters mentioned.
The writing, plot and plot twists were great, but I had a hard time keeping up with the myriad of characters. I wish the list of people at the end of the book would've been at the beginning in order for me to keep things straight.

I'll definitely pick up more of Karen Brook's work, but this one wasn't as good as her previous novel for me personally.

In 1679, Tribulation Johnson leaves her home in Chartham, Kent and travels to London to stay with her widowed cousin. Tribulation is happy to get away from her puritan father Howell Johnson and she will miss her older sister Bethan. Tribulation is tall for a woman, and her father has made sure she’s very aware of her many faults and he's glad to be rid of her!

Arriving in an unforgettable way in London Tribulation discovers her cousin Aphra Behn is a former spy and traitor’s mistress, now a playwright and takes in lodgers to make ends meet. At Dorset Garden Theatre, Tribulation has a small role in a play and suffers from a bad case of stage fright, Aphra encourages her to write, speak up and not be so meek. At a time when women didn’t have a voice, let alone write for a living and Aphra is blazing the trail for future generations of opinionated women. Helping Tribulation navigate the way are Aphra, her companion Nest and actor Jonathan Rickman makes Tribulation’s heart flutter and is he really what he seems?

With a Popish Plot to overturn the monarchy and Charles II and it’s a volatile time to be living in Restoration London. The audiences are unruly, England is full of theatrics, politics, plotters, spies, scandals, religious differences, cultural barriers and it’s getting ready to explode! Aphra’s loyalty is questioned to her country, King Charles II and has she being lying to a gullible Tribulation and could the cousins be caught up in the ultimate betrayal?

I received a copy of The Escapades of Tribulation Johnson by Karen Brooks from NetGalley and Harlequin Australia in exchange for an honest review. Dr. Brooks is a wonderful historical storyteller, and the six hundred and forty four pages were a delight to read, just the right amount of literary drama and ebbs and flows. A narrative about the first woman to make a living as a writer and playwright in England and her fictional cousin, Aphra Johnson Behn, she paved the way for women to speak up and about anything, and her writing was radical for the time. Tribulation’s character is funny, delightful, bumbling and she discovers a big secret about herself, it’s her light globe moment and she's rather smitten with Mr. Rickman. Five stars from me, a pleasure to read and I highly recommend.

‘And still, you never learn.’ ‘But I do. I just refuse to accept the lesson.’ ‘Life is not a series of escapades, Tribulation,’ she said impatiently, quoting Papa, ‘but a matter to be taken seriously. Nevertheless, you’ve been given an opportunity. What you choose to do from hereon is entirely up to you.’

Once again Karen Brooks takes her readers on an epic journey back in time - 1600s England - and introduces her readers to a remarkable independent woman. With her attention to detail and gobsmacking amount of research, Karen crafts a story for the ages about women in history and giving them their voice back through tumultuous times of conspiracy and rebellion.

The Escapades of Tribulation Johnson is an amazing tale to add to Karen’s shelf of exceptional historical fiction writing. Sensational writing that keeps readers engaged through each and every page with poetic prose, astounding literary references and a cast of characters that command attention. There is never a dull moment with the many twists and turns, danger and drama, hope and healing.

‘While it was gratifying to be seen, what I truly desired was to be a woman who was heard. Not just uttering words a playwright put in my mouth, or sweet nothings to pander to a man’s pride, but like Aphra, my own considered views and damn the consequences. Time again to wield my pen. Wield my words.’

Set in the brave new world of English theatre where for the first time women were allowed to tread the boards, enter Aphra Behn. A spy and playwright who cut a path for other women to follow that would be felt through the many decades/centuries to follow. Thank you Karen for shining the spotlight on this incredible woman from history and bringing Aphra and her story very much back to life. As Karen wrote in her Author’s Note, “I sought to repatriate Aphra Behn, and present a real working woman - two of them! - seeking to simply earn a living wage and contribute creatively and intellectually to their society.”

‘Through words - words I write, and which actresses like Elizabeth Barry, Mary Lee, Elizabeth Currer, your Charlotte and the rest perform - we speak to the audience, to other women especially. They hear us. They see us. It’s one of the reasons I make sure there’s plenty for my female characters to say. There’s a strength in numbers, Tribulation.’

The creative license Karen claims to take simply enriches what was already a marvelous tale to be told. With attention to detail on every aspect of the novel, Karen’s book is quite outstanding. It is so believable and flows along at quite a pace given its length. Readers walk the streets of London in the 1600s, trod the theatre boards and jeer along with the crowd, geting caught up with Aphra and Tribulation as they face friends and foes. I highly recommend lovers of rich and well researched historical fiction to read The Escapades of Tribulation Johnson. Karen is truly proving herself time and again to be a masterful storyteller, giving voice to women who time and tide refused to hold back. Bravo!

‘One last thing, Tribulation.’ My heart began to do strange manoeuvres. What now? ‘You were never “unnatural”, simply “unconventional”. A woman for whom life is a series of adventures to be savoured. May it always be so.’






This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.

The Escapades of Tribulation Johnson is an absolutely amazing historical novel. The story of Alpha Behn, a female writer in 17th Century, who blazed the trail for women writers is incredible and along with her fictional cousin Tribulation Johnson we are taken on the writer’s/playwright’s/poet’s journey. Karen Brooks is a marvellous writer who not only immerses you in the atmosphere of the time, but transports you into the theatrical world and that of spies and conspirators. The extensive research is reflected in the location descriptions, the characters and the language used. So many words and phrases to enjoy - beaucoup merde - being one of many!

Highly recommended read.

This review is based on a complimentary copy from Harlequin Australia via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

#TheEscapadesofTribulationJohnson #NetGalley

In 1679 Tribulation Johnson is cast out by her father, a vicar in Kent for speaking up to oppose the marriage of her widowed older sister Bethan to a loathsome elderly Lord. Bethan, who more or less raised Tribulation since her mother died when she was very young, organises for her to be taken in by a cousin who lives in London. To Tribulation’s delight, she discovers her cousin is the famed playwright Aphra Benn and soon Tribulation is enjoying life amidst London’s vibrant theatre scene, learning to act, prompt and work behind the scenes and later write herself at the Dorset Garden theatre. Aphra and Tribulation will grow really close, helping to replace the family who banished her.

This is a marvellous tale set in late 17th century London based on real characters and politics of the time. A protestant king, Charles II is on the throne and anti-catholic is rampant. However, there is rumoured to be a ‘popish plot’, a catholic-led plan to remove Charles and replace him with his catholic brother James, Duke of York. Spies and agents for both sides abound both at home and abroad. Joining the Dorset Garden theatre troupe as a leading man, Jonathan Rickman seems a surly type of man who keeps to himself, but he is also playing a part in a bigger scheme and will play an important role in Aphra’s and Tribulation’s lives.

Although this is a long book with a long cast of characters, both real and fictional, but rest assured you will never be bored or confused. There is so much happening – intrigue, romance, plotting and politics – history in the making! As well as excellent research into the history and key players, Karen Brooks masterfully evokes the atmosphere of the rumbunctious London theatre of that era. The sights and sounds of the crowd heckling the actors and other members of the audience, the orange sellers moving around selling their wares and the actors spying from behind the curtains to see which notables in the audience tonight. I enjoyed the way the playwrights weave politics of the day into the plays with characters often being satirical renderings of those involved, as well as the the prologues and epilogues written to make some political comment, sometimes causing the play to be shut down. A brilliant combination of fact and fiction, this engaging and enjoyable novel is sure to delight fans of historical fiction.

The Escapades of Tribulation Johnson or A Woman Writes Back

There is something truly brilliant about historical fiction. When done well, these stories allow for all consuming escapism into a period not likely experienced, while also peaking the reader’s curiosity to learn more about the events, era or real persons upon which the stories are based.

The Escapades of Tribulation Johnson, by Karen Brooks, is a fabulous example of the genre, drawing you in to the world of theatre and royal conspiracy, and making Aphra Behn a heroine of the time, worthy of further investigation.

Where there is trouble, hope follows and for Tribulation Johnson there is certainly much to be troubled by with family drama, deadly intrigue, and plenty of barriers to her struggle for independence and effecting change. But in Aphra she finds a kindred spirit, a nurturing mother-figure, and an inspiring mentor. Brooks’ main characters are fallible but also have heart and bravery.

The contrast found in the male characters - either the many typical chauvinists and conniving power players of the time, or the few who are protectors and respectful - steers the story, twisting and turning, impacting on the lives of Aphra and Tribulation until the very climax as they teeter on the verge of poverty and ruin.

I connected with Tribulation, a fictional character, through her struggles with writing and family estrangement, as well as her desire to be seen for herself. Without giving anything away, I was so invested in her that I cried at the end, not only because of the events, but also because of the connection Brooks had created through her character development.

I highly recommend The Escapades of Tribulation Johnson, particularly if you are an avid historical fiction tragic like me, but even if you aren’t you will find a fabulously crafted story that will take you on a journey through trouble towards hope.

-M. E. Smith

A well told tale of the highest order. I feel like this book is a modern classic and I loved that although it's fiction the author has done a whole lot of research and combined it with some true facts. Tribulation Johnson is the protagonist and a feminist with a strong and smart mind. I enjoyed reading about the theatre as I don't know much about the inner workings and it definitely gives you a feel for the culture. I also wanted to say that although it's slightly longer than the average book I never once felt my mind wandering as every single word in the book is well written and engaging. I didn't originally like the cover but after reading the book I realised that it's the perfect cover and actually sums up what the book is about.

‘Life is not a series of escapade, Tribulation.’

London 1679. Welcome to Restoration London, where Tribulation Johnson has been despatched by her father and sister Bethan to join her widowed cousin, Aphra Johnson. Tribulation is not unhappy to leave Chartham, where she has lived her entire life but being cast out as ungodly and unworthy is not the way she would have chosen to leave.

But when she arrives in a rather spectacular fashion at Aphra’s lodging, dressed in her dead brother’s clothes, she discovers that her cousin is Aphra Behn, the playwright. Tribulation is delighted.

Under Aphra’s guidance, Tribulation is encouraged to write and to think for herself (her father, Reverend Johnson, would be shocked). Tribulation accompanies Aphra to the theatre, which she quickly becomes familiar with. But not everyone is happy with Aphra’s role in the theatre, and women are never paid as much as men for the work they do. Life for both Aphra and Tribulation becomes complicated: plots and rebellion feature during this period of Charles II’s reign, and the King and his advisers are always watchful. Aphra’s complicated history means that she knows many of those involved.

‘Anonymous … thy name is woman.’

The story unfolds depicting both the highs and lows of theatrical life and the intricacies of negotiating between competing factions. Tribulation also discovers love and finds the truth about her life. Many historical characters appear in the novel as Ms Brooks cleverly combines fact and fiction to bring this period, and Aphra Behn, to life.

And Tribulation? A marvellous character who held my attention from beginning to end.

‘Women pay for everyone’s sins and so do those who love them.’

Highly recommended.

Note: My thanks to NetGalley and HQ Fiction for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review purposes.

Jennifer Cameron-Smith

This is another absorbing, fascinating historical novel from Karen Brooks. It grabbed me immediately – unlike some historical fiction, which can take a while to get into – and held me till the last page.

It’s 1679, and the roles women are “allowed” to occupy are few and bound by strict societal expectations. If you can’t or don’t live up to those expectations, the consequences are enormous. You’re automatically assumed to be a whore, poverty is a constant danger, and you’re blocked from polite society.

This environment is excruciating for Tribulation Johnson. Stuck with a puritan name – although neither she or her family are puritans – her father claims that she lives up to it. Tribulation wants to be a writer, and her father scorns her “silly scribbles”. Worse, she never seems to be able to act like a proper woman.

The final straw is when Tribulation not only rejects a marriage to Sir Marmaduke – an elderly and unpleasant man, but rich and well placed in society – but derails the longer planned marriage between him and her older sister Bethan. In a rage, her father sends her away.

But Bethan has arranged for Tribulation to go to a distant relative in London. Their father thinks this is a respectable widow who may tame Tribulation. Bethan knows that Aphra Behn actually makes a living as a writer, behaves in a way their father would disapprove of – and is just the right person to help Tribulation find her happiness.

There’s a solid dose of history here, with many real people and events appearing in the novel. Aphra, for example, was a real historical figure, and many of the details of her life depicted in this novel are real. However, this isn’t a history lesson. It’s a story full of energy and life, boiling over with events and people, and with truly vivid characters, real and imagined. I’ve actually barely touched on the plot; there’s so much happening and so many characters, that it’s hard to sensibly summarise it for a review.

However, it’s easy to keep it all straight and it’s mightily entertaining. I was swept up in Tribulation’s story, and the stories of those she interacts with. Readers will sympathise with her, and will sometimes be horrified by the realities of her life. These are brought to life in a vivid way that resonates far better than any history lesson.

Although this is very much a story of its’ time and place, many women are going to recognize a lot of the behaviour that Tribulation and Aphra have to negotiate every day, from sexual harassment to men outright ignoring their views. They’re perhaps a little more accepting of it – their society doesn’t see much wrong with it – but they rail against it in terms any modern woman will connect with.

Tribulation is the central character, and I found her both empathetic and understandable. Her choices are pretty limited but she does the best she can with what’s available to her. She has gumption, and readers will be on her side from early in the novel.

Other characters are also strong and believable, but even though some are prominent throughout the novel, it was Tribulation who stood out to me.

The full plot is both fascinating and entertaining. As I said, there’s a lot going on – much of it historically accurate – and it covers around a decade. As a result, it’s not at fever pitch all of the time, but even the quieter periods are full of detail and interesting.

I really enjoyed this. It’s a good read, a really enjoyable story, and the bonus is the historical detail. I appreciated the detailed note at the back of the novel which outlined who and what was historically accurate – I always feel these sorts of notes add depth to the novel when I’m thinking it over. But first and foremost, this was an engrossing and engaging read.

I HAVE NOT PUBLISHED THIS REVIEW YET. I WILL DO SO CLOSER TO PUBLICATION DATE, AND WILL ADD REVIEW LINKS THEN.

You may also be interested in my reviews of other novels by Karen Brooks:
https://otherdreamsotherlives.home.blog/2021/06/18/the-good-wife-of-bath/
https://otherdreamsotherlives.home.blog/2020/03/12/the-darkest-shore/

The Escapades of Tribulation Johnson really knocked me off my feet! Kept me glued to the pages and up all hours reading it. Such a powerful riveting novel filled with fascinating characters, beautiful poetic descriptions, gorgeous literary references and a plot that has more twists and turns that you can count. There’s a lot to keep you interested, considering it is a very long story. But with the ample intrigue, drama, mystery, danger, treachery, suspense, love and romance happening, you are pinned to the actions of Tribulation and the rest of the cast. It is one power packed treasure!

There’s a lot to say about this book but there’s a danger of saying too much and spoiling the journey for readers, so I will try to stick to a few things, but be assured I highly recommend The Escapades of Tribulation Johnson to historical fiction lovers who enjoy imagining the lives of those that have gone before us. Here we get to see what it might have been like to be Tribulation and, of course, to have known the famous Aphra Behn, (born 1640 and died 1689) the first English woman to actually make a living from her writing.

Karen Brooks has a soaring reputation herself as an ‘author, columnist, journalist, book reviewer, corporate speaker, semi-retired academic and social commentator.’ She wears many hats like Aphra. In this novel she shows us quite well Aphra’s variety of writing skills as a playwright, poet, prose writer and translator from the Restoration era. This intriguing woman from the past wrote lively bold material for her day, always heralding her feminist opinions and displaying her gifted vision. Her determination was admirable and the effect she had on future women writers. Karen does an incredible job of painting her in our minds so that we feel as those we have become friends with this woman. Someone we can look up to. A mentor or sorts. We love her just as Tribulation does and learn from her brilliant phrases and draw courage from her positive advice. She is an amazing character and I won’t forget her. Just as I won’t forget Tribulation. To watch her blossom throughout the story into a strong confident woman writer was in part due to the influence of Aphra (which in many ways represents all of us women writers who have come after her). The battles women faced back then, as we know from history, were pretty horrific.

There are numerous characters in this novel and Karen has listed them at the back to keep track. Three men who affect Tribulation’s life, first is her papa. His strict attitudes and harsh treatment dents her self-confidence immensely. But she continues to rebel against the archaic views of the age that women were to remain silent, have no opinion unless given one by a man. Tribulation dreams of leaving Chartham village to see London and other places as she feels there has to be ‘more to life than simply listening’. Her departure from her hometown proves to be her greatest move. Her arrival in London certainly opens new avenues through her cousin Aphra. Her entry into the theatre is a bumpy one but there she meets Jonathon Rickman. He carries two names for reasons you will learn. He is an impressive actor but so much more than meets the eye. He saves her from an embarrassing moment on the stage but later seeks her assistance for a job she never expected to do. Their journey together is an intriguing one with a few flips and turns but he is a constant in her background. Then eventually she meets William Scot, a scoundrel-traitor figure, who also poses under another name. The revelation of his connection to Tribulation will explain so much about her past. And it is not a pretty one. But she will rise above the discord and trials with a determination that fills a heart with hope.

Tribulation’s sister, Bethan, holds one of the large pieces of the family puzzle. She is the one who manages to have Tribulation sent to the home of cousin Aphra. (The greatest gift she could have given her—even if it first appears a strange move on Bethan’s part. But all will be revealed!) I thought her presence and outcome were appropriately handled. Her trials and eventual happiness are quite moving. Plus, her enormous part in Tribulation’s rescue.

I have already mentioned Aphra who is the shining star in Tribulation’s life. But I want to make a quick mention also of the quiet steady hand and loving heart of Nest, Aphra’s maid, who cared for Tribulation as well. There were some very endearing moments in the story with these three. Especially during difficult times. She is like family to them.

Karen’s attention to detail for every aspect of the novel is quite outstanding. Everything felt believable and never once did I feel I was pulled out of the setting or plot—it all just flowed along like a well-oiled machine. Karen’s exceptional writing transported me to 1600’s London, with theatre scenes that are so authentic I felt I was there in the crowd or behind the stage. It presented the chaos and charisma of such a place in the 17th Century. And Aphra’s and Tribulation’s part made it all the more relatable.

The novel also explores the political upheaval and relationship scandals of the time. A large part of the story’s fabric is the constant threat to the crown, those who tried to take the King down. Plus, the characters who are always spying and trying to keep tabs on the traitors to prevent the King’s death. These ruthless adversaries are lurking in many arenas. This battle of strengths is woven like a theme thread through the heart of the novel but even these are interlaced with Aphra and Tribulation’s actions and reactions. For these two ladies are part of the inner circle. But being women, their words are not taken seriously and they must take drastic measures to prove their points.

I could rave forever about this novel as I truly loved it. There are so many memorable phrases – many that came from Aphra, wonderful insightful observations and advice. And even Tribulation’s thoughts and spoken words are brilliant. With Tribulation, you just never knew what was going to come out of her mouth. So often she rose to the occasion with a wit and determination that made me cheer! Even when she first arrived on Aphra’s doorstep, before she was guided by this woman to achieve greater heights, her raw honesty and thirst to learn and explore the world was ever present. What her father mistakenly called ‘unnatural’ ways was true individuality. She really was a girl ahead of her time. A younger version of Aphra as Aphra said herself. And of course, the meaning of her name was soon to be realised. Along with its positives— ‘two sides of the same coin’. Trouble and Hope. And how they go hand in hand.

I deeply encourage everyone who loves extraordinary historical fiction to read The Escapades of Tribulation Johnson when it is out. Another sparkling jewel added to Karen's exquisite literary crown! A novel truly worthy of high praise and worth more than just 5 Stars. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️*

Many thanks to HQ Australia and Netgalley for my review copy.

I was drawn to this book as I really enjoyed the Good Wife of Bath. Karen Brooks has yet again delivered a story of a (real) strong woman who time has mostly forgotten. While the titular character has been developed for this story, the background and many of the other characters are real and some knowledge of 1600s English politics, especially as they relate to Charles II would be useful, though not necessary.
Personally, I found this a book of two halves, the first half introducing the characters and storyline, which seemed to drag a little, but the second half more than made it up for this with an action packed journey to the end. As I read this on my kindle, I found out too late that there was a list of characters at the back of the book which I would have appreciated as I was reading. I do recommend this book to others especially as it is an entertaining way to learn more about history, the author’s attention to detail and research on the times are second to none, and historical female figures like Aphra Behn.
Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for a pre release copy of this book in exchange for an honest, non biased review.